2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1974 Vauxhall Firenza
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Vauxhall Firenza would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. (77 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Vauxhall Firenza is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Vauxhall Firenza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1974 Vauxhall Firenza | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Firenza |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1759 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
